From October 14-19, 2024, Bogotá, Colombia, served as a backdrop for the Atlantic Fellows convening on planetary health and just transitions.
Organized by the Atlantic Institute and Dejusticia, this gathering drew together a diverse coalition of researchers, activists and policymakers dedicated to unraveling the complex relationship between climate change and equity. Central to the discussions was the urgent need for a just transition — an approach that champions fairness and inclusivity as we shift toward sustainable practices.
Humanizing climate conversations
One of the most striking features of the convening was the emphasis on personal narratives that brought climate discussions to life. Fellows shared their stories, transforming abstract concepts into relatable experiences that resonated deeply with attendees. These personal accounts illuminated how climate change exacerbates existing health inequities, particularly for marginalized communities already grappling with systemic injustices. By grounding our conversations in lived experiences, we forged a meaningful connection between climate action and the daily realities faced by those most affected by environmental degradation.
Redefining climate action through health equity
The gathering underscored a crucial point: climate change is not merely an environmental challenge; it is fundamentally intertwined with human health and equity at its core. The impacts of climate change are disproportionately felt by vulnerable populations, who often bear the brunt of its consequences. This reality compels us to advocate for the decolonization of global health practices. A critical examination of historical power dynamics reveals the need for culturally sensitive approaches that empower local communities and embed their knowledge in decision-making processes. As we navigate this intricate landscape, strengthening collaborations across sectors emerges as essential to tackling these pressing challenges.
Elevating Indigenous voices
A watershed moment during the convening was the spotlight on Indigenous knowledge and leadership. This shift represents a significant departure from traditional policy-making processes that often marginalize Indigenous perspectives. For generations, Indigenous communities have been guardians of environmental wisdom. Indigenous and local communities are not just stakeholders — they are essential partners in our journey toward planetary health. It's time we not only listened but followed their lead. This acknowledgment of Indigenous wisdom is crucial for developing holistic and effective climate solutions.
Commitment to a just transition
As a network of fellows of fellows, we are poised to redefine climate conversations. Our discussions emphasized that a just transition must prioritize resilience, justice and equity. This commitment involves not only moving away from fossil fuels but also creating sustainable economic opportunities that uplift all communities, particularly those historically marginalized. These are the principles of a just transition:
Inclusivity: Ensuring that all stakeholders, especially those directly impacted by climate policies, have a voice in the process.
Equity: Addressing historical injustices and ensuring a fair distribution of resources and opportunities.
Sustainability: Promoting practices that safeguard both human health and the planet.
Building collaborative pathways
Throughout our time in Bogotá, we identified significant synergies among our diverse disciplines and geographical areas of expertise. This collaborative spirit is crucial for developing effective, multifaceted solutions to the interconnected challenges of climate change and inequity. Brainstorming sessions revealed a shared commitment to tackling these urgent issues, reinforcing the idea that collective action is vital for progress.
Fellows acknowledge the complex interplay between environmental and social determinants of health, pushing beyond traditional boundaries of climate action to address root causes of vulnerability and inequity.
Looking ahead: From Bogota to Brazil
As the convening concluded, it became apparent that the real work lies ahead. The frameworks and strategies developed in Bogotá provide a robust foundation for action, but realizing these goals will require sustained commitment and collaboration across sectors, regions and communities. With COP30 on the horizon, the vision articulated by the Atlantic Fellows serves as a timely reminder: effective climate action must be ambitious and deeply rooted in principles of health equity and social justice.
The message from Bogotá is clear: transformative action is urgently needed, and the path forward must ensure that no community is left behind in our collective journey toward planetary health and climate resilience. We're not just fighting against climate change. We're fighting for a healthier, fairer, more sustainable world for all.
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